Yukari Oshima had a combination of talents and industry experience that is unlikely to be repeated. As a Japanese she defied the odds against non-Chinese actors to produce perhaps the largest filmography of pure contemporary action roles – more than 60 – of any performer reviewed here, appearing under three screen names in three distinct film industries (HK, Taiwan and The Philippines).

As a teenager Oshima studied judo and gymnastics, in addition to Goju ryu karate at a competitive level. Her physical conditioning allowed greater than 180-degree leg extensions, resulting in eye-popping high kicks. Oshima’s roundhouse could be to the head or neck – not just the torso. It is worth noting that Oshima was one of the relatively few prominent female action performers to actually be a martial artist. Other attributes included a year studying at Sonny Chiba’s stunt school, and stunt work on Japanese television before her movie debut in 1986. Yasuaki Kurota – an acquaintance of Oshima’s sifu – was reportedly instrumental in getting her a part in Sammo Hung’s “Millionaire's Express” (1986). The combination of martial arts and stunt skills were in evidence throughout Oshima’s career. No other female action performer would equal her falls and capacity to take – as well as give – physical punishment. With changes in the industry, Oshima relocated to The Philippines where she appeared in work directed by Phillip Ko, before returning to make more films on the Mainland toward the end of the decade.

Her last noteworthy appearance was in the “It Takes a Thief” (1999), and although “Digital Warriors” was marketed under her name, her participation was canceled and the project emerged as “Techno Warriors” without her. She reportedly continues to appear in films produced in the Philippines. Fans seeking recent titles should also definitely locate “Vengeance is Mine” (1997).